The Laarim

A small tribe in the Boya Hills of South Sudan

The Laarim, also known as the Boya or Narim, are a Nilotic people living in the rugged, hilly terrain of the South Sudanese Boya Hills. They live in small settlements in the savanna, with the main town being Kimatong. Social and cultural life is centered around cattle. They breed them, eat their meat, use them as dowry to get a bride, drink their blood and milk, and sleep on their hides. Raiding and stealing of cattle is a question of honor and valor.

The Laarim are close relatives to the Didinga, Murle, and Tenet tribes, and they share many beliefs and rituals. They practice Africa Traditional Religion with some Catholic influence, are highly aware of spiritual forces, and believe in a supreme being who controls all of life, including the health of their cattle. To them, the spirits of their ancestors roam the earth, and they can communicate with the spirits through prayers and offerings which they perform collectively in designated ritual places.